This is a post I have been waiting months to write. As a foster parent, you are told not to post pictures or information about your foster children online, and that is why it has taken me months and months to introduce you to our newest addition, Talli.
Talli has been living with us for about 8 months and I am so proud to say that she has now graduated high school and turned 18! ( and that is why, with her permission I can now share her with you all)
If there is one thing I have learned from this experience ( and there are about 100), it is: Never tell God what you won't do! When Dan and I became foster parents, we stated very boldly that we will never and I mean never take in a teenager! A couple years later... Surprise! We were blessed with Talli. Dan and I had known Talli for the past 4 years, Dan being her teacher and I coaching her. Because of the relationship we already shared with her, when we found out she needed a home we naturally welcomed her into ours.
When Talli came to live with us, my expertise included: picking up toys, singing the ABC's and thinking up creative ways to trick a 2 year old into taking a nap. Lately, life has morphed into curfews, mood swings and late night talks (which I love, when I can stay awake of course). Teenagers are way more complex than toddlers! Thankfully, Talli has fit into our family very well. Both kids love her and she has many similar interests as us.
Our experience hasn't always been cake ( nothing ever is). However, the good far outweighs the challenges. We have grown to love and cherish this young girl and it has been so neat seeing her blossom into a young lady with goals, dreams and most importantly a relationship with Jesus Christ. We can't wait to see what the future holds for her and the direction that God takes her! Happy Birthday Talli! We love you!
